CERVICAL CANCER AWARENESS TALK 2025: Preventing, Detecting, and Managing Cervical Cancer
To commemorate the 2025 World Cervical Awareness Month, the Department of Pharmacy hosted a comprehensive cervical cancer awareness talk focusing on prevention, detection, and management. The primary objective was to educate the public about cervical cancer, its causes and risk factors, signs and symptoms, prevention strategies and the importance of early detection and screening.
The awareness talk began by understanding what cervical cancer is – a type of cancer that forms in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus. Unfortunately, cervical cancer remains a significant public health concern, particularly in Nigeria. However, with awareness and education, we can save lives.
The causes and risk factors were elaborately discussed. Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) that cause most cases of cervical cancer is the primary cause. Risk factors include multiple sexual partners, early sexual activity, smoking, and a weakened immune system.
The speakers educated the audience about cervical cancer facts to dispel common myths about cervical cancer. For instance, cervical cancer is preventable, and HPV vaccination is highly effective. Risk factors can include lifestyle and health conditions, and men play a role in prevention.
The speakers also spoke about the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer. In its early stages, cervical cancer is often asymptomatic. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms may include abnormal vaginal bleeding, unusual vaginal discharge, and pelvic pain.
Furthermore, several preventive strategies were highlighted which include: HPV vaccination, regular screening, Practicing safe sex, using condoms, and limiting the number of sexual partners can reduce the risk of HPV infection. Finally, avoiding smoking and maintaining a strong immune system can also help prevent cervical cancer.
The awareness talk also highlighted how cervical cancer is diagnosed and treated. Diagnosis involves a combination of Pap smears, HPV tests, colposcopy and biopsy. Treatment options vary depending on the stage of the disease, ranging from surgery and cryotherapy for early-stage cancer to radiation, chemotherapy, or palliative care for advanced-stage cancer.
The awareness talk was concluded with a call to action section which urged the audience to take action by getting informed, getting screened and getting vaccinated.
Cervical cancer is a preventable, treatable, and curable disease when detected early. The Department of Pharmacy is committed to raising awareness and promoting education about cervical cancer. We hope you’ll join us in the fight against this disease.
